My Betta is STILL Scared...

[citsjustme]

I've had my betta fish for 5 months now, he has a cave and plants. When he sees my finger at the top of the tank he looks up and waits for me to drop the food. He goes to the top gets the food real quick then swims back to his cave. When I put my finger next to the tank he swims away from it. Will he always be like this?

[AyalaCookiejar]

It's probably just his personality and won't likely change after so long. You can try adding some more decor to make him feel more secure. I always try to get them to associate me with food right off the bat because it generally makes them more fond of you and your fingers. They live in densely planted areas in the wild and like to have cover.
They are all different, some are shy and some are the complete opposite!

[aemaki09]

I've got a boy like that too. He doesnt have a cave, but he always hides behing his plants when I get too close. I think I've had him for about 8 months now?
Anyways, It likely wont change. Does he stay in his cave at all times? Or just when your near by?

[citsjustme]

Past week I've been noticing that he has been exploring a bit outside of the cave, but when he sees my finger on the side of the tank he swims to the other side, or he backs up. He's fine as long as he doesn't see my finger at the side of his tank.

[aemaki09]

Oh, that's not too bad then. He must just be a little jumpy. I've got another that will do that too. I just think its bad memories from their cup days...maybe they had a kid shake them or something

[citsjustme]

Oh Okay Thanks for the help :D